NepaYatraNepaYatra
Cultural
Madhesh Province80 m

Birgunj

Main Commercial Hub & Principal India–Nepal Border Gateway

The principal land entry point for Indian travelers entering Nepal, directly connected to Raxaul (Bihar) across the busiest Nepal–India border crossing.

Birgunj Nepal

Overview & Highlights

Birgunj is the main commercial gateway between India and Nepal, located on the Terai plains of Madhesh Province directly opposite Raxaul in Bihar. For Indian travellers, it is the most common land entry into Nepal — the border at Raxaul–Birgunj handles the highest volume of cross-border traffic. Birgunj itself is primarily a transit and commercial town; most travellers continue onward to Kathmandu (130 km north, 4–5 hours by bus) or other destinations without stopping. The border is open 24 hours for pedestrians and vehicles. The town has regular bus connections to Kathmandu, Pokhara, Janakpur, and Chitwan. A new fast highway connecting Birgunj to Kathmandu via the Hetauda–Bhimphedi section has reduced road journey times.

How to Reach Birgunj

Birgunj is situated directly opposite Raxaul (Bihar, India). It is the premier overland arrival point connecting Indian road and train networks to Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Janakpur.

1

Cross from Raxaul (Bihar)

Take a cycle-rickshaw or e-rickshaw across the border gate from Raxaul Railway Station into Birgunj town (3 km, 10–15 mins, ₹30–50 INR).

2

Onward Transport from Birgunj Bus Park

Board morning tourist buses or taxis to Kathmandu (130 km, 4.5–5 hrs) or Chitwan (100 km, 3 hrs).

Onward Travel & Connections

Common travel routes connecting from Birgunj.

Birgunj → Kathmandu

4.5 hrs · 130 km · Tourist Bus or Private Car

The Mahendra Highway from Birgunj heads north through the Hetauda Churia Hills to Kathmandu. Journey time 4–5 hours by tourist bus (₹500–800). The upgraded expressway via Hetauda–Bhimphedi has improved road quality. Taxis from Birgunj gate charge ₹5,000–7,000 for the full journey.

Explore Kathmandu

Suggested Itineraries Featuring Birgunj

9 Days Circuit

Golden Triangle Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara & Chitwan

The classic Nepal itinerary covering the country's three unmissable destinations — heritage temples in Kathmandu, lakeside adventures in Pokhara, and wildlife safaris in Chitwan. Designed for Indian travelers seeking the best of Nepal in 8–10 days without missing anything essential.

Practical Travel Guides

Complete Entry Requirements Guide for Indian Citizens Visiting Nepal →

Everything Indian travelers need to know before crossing into Nepal — documents accepted, border procedures, what to expect at each crossing, and common mistakes to avoid.

Related Destinations

More destinations in Madhesh or similar category.

Kathmandu
Cultural

Bagmati

Kathmandu

Nepal's vibrant capital blending ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a thriving backpacker scene in the heart of the Himalayas.

1,400 m altitude

Janakpur
Religious

Madhesh

Janakpur

The holy city of Sita, birthplace of the goddess in Hindu mythology, and home to the magnificent Janaki Mandir — a major pilgrimage site for Indian devotees.

70 m altitude

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